A routing algorithm for a single transfer crane to load export containers onto a containership

It is discussed how to route transfer crane during loading operation of export containers in port container terminal. We determine the number of containers which transfer crane picks up at each yard-bay as well as the sequence of yard-bays which transfer crane visits during the tour. The objective is to minimize the total container handling time of the transfer crane including the set-up time at each yard-bay and the travel time between consecutive yard-bays. This routing problem is formulated as an integer programming. An efficient optimizing algorithm is also developed for the crane routing problem. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Ltd.